The recent developments in the Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have effectively improved the international communication systems leaving a great impact on the developing countries as well. According to International Telecommunication Union (ITU) statistics, in the past decade there were just 182 million people using the internet globally and by early 2009 there were over 600 million users only in Asia.
Internet usage in Pakistan has also increased many folds thus affecting positively the development processes and of course growth patterns. Today, the Pakistan telecom sector has become a role model for other sectors in reshaping economic destiny of the people. As the internet usage is growing in the country, a large number of internet users comprise of children and youth.
The world is open to youth and children in cyber space while they surf for information, research, entertainment, chatting and making new social networks. Open access to cyber world do expose children to unsafe material which can be dangerous and injurious to young minds. The easy access of immature minds to harmful material sometimes becomes strong basis for cyber crimes. Undoubtedly, children are the future of any nation; therefore, every effort should be made to protect them from any such harm.
The negative impact of the cyber space has potential to be a threat rather than an opportunity for the promising future of our new generations. ITU celebrates the World Telecommunication & Information Society Day every year on 17th May with a theme for each year highlighting important issues of ICTs being faced by the world. This year's theme is "Protecting Children in Cyber Space".
In connection with the World Telecommunication Day, apart from other measures, PTA has also organised an essay writing competition and has invited papers from the general public on the topic of "Protecting Children in Cyber Space". Emphasis has been given to seek concrete recommendations from the participants.
These recommendations would be part of PTA efforts to improve future polices on protecting networks for children. Besides, Awards will be given to the selected papers. This will also help us all in understanding the needs and requirements of the ICT industry and challenges faced by it. On this occasion, I assure you that PTA is making utmost efforts to ensure safe environments for the youth of Pakistan and for the smooth and steady development of ICTs in Pakistan.
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